BosanskiFor the diaspora
Raising bilingual Bosnian kids
Kids keep a language when they need it and enjoy it. A few daily routines in Bosnian, family who speak it to them, and playful practice do more than any single class.
Routines that work
- One routine, always in Bosnian: breakfast, bath time or bedtime.
- Calls with family in Bosnia, with the kids saying hello and goodbye themselves.
- Songs and stories before reading. Young children learn by hearing.
- Praise, not correction. A kid who answers in Bosnian, even with mistakes, is winning.
Words to use every day
| Audio | Bosnian | English |
|---|---|---|
| dobro jutro | good morning | |
| laku noć | good night | |
| hvala | thank you | |
| molim | please / you're welcome | |
| volim te | I love you | |
| idemo | we're going / let's go | |
| dođi | come (here) |
When they answer in English
Almost every diaspora parent hears it. Keep speaking Bosnian, repeat their answer back in Bosnian, and make it a game, not a rule.
Bosanski kids mode is made for under-7s: pictures, Nana's voice and games, with no reading. Weekend Bosnian schools are another great option; see Bosnian classes for kids.
Questions
How do I teach my kids Bosnian at home?
Pick daily routines that always happen in Bosnian, involve family who speak it, and keep it playful. Apps with no reading required help young children.
My kids understand Bosnian but answer in English. Is that normal?
Yes, very. Keep speaking Bosnian and gently repeat their answers in Bosnian.